Animal and Plant Cells (SQA National 5 Biology): Revision Note
Exam code: X807 75
Animal cell ultrastructure
Cells are the structural units that make up all living organisms
Key features of cell ultrastructure in animal cells include:
nucleus
cell membrane
cytoplasm
mitochondria (singular mitochondrion)
ribosomes
Feature | Function |
|---|---|
Nucleus | Contains chromosomes which carry genetic information and so control the activities of the cell |
Cell membrane | Controls the movement of substances into and out of the cell |
Cytoplasm | Site of most cell reactions |
Mitochondrion | Site of aerobic respiration |
Ribosome | Site of protein synthesis |
Plant cell ultrastructure
Plant cells also contain all of the main structures found in animal cells, i.e.:
nucleus
cell membrane
cytoplasm
mitochondria
ribosomes
Plant cells contain the following additional structures:
cellulose cell wall
permanent vacuole
chloroplasts
Feature | Function |
|---|---|
Cell wall (containing cellulose) | Structural support for plant cells |
Chloroplast | Site of photosynthesis |
Permanent vacuole | Contains a solution of water and dissolved sugars known as cell sap When the vacuole is filled with water, it pushes the rest of the cell contents outwards against the cell wall, supporting the cell's structure |
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